Configa, Tommy Evans - Jolicoeur

Doctors Configa and Tommy Evans - the world’s first producer-rapper-PhD combo - combine for their album “Jolicoeur.” The title (“A Gallant Heart”) pays homage to the late, great Dave of De La Soul whilst encapsulating Configa and Tommy’s artistic ethos, authenticity and aesthetic.

With their singular soulful rap sound and credits in the triple figures, the dynamic duo are bonafide triple OGs in the game. Configa has laced countless hip hop icons with beats including Chuck D, Arrested Development and Big Daddy Kane whilst Tommy can count the likes of Kylie and Stormzy as fans of his artistry alongside being sampled by the legendary Dilla!

The 10-track project sees production wizard Dr Configa conjure up classic soulful melodies and banging beats for TE to glide over in his signature laid back style. Dr Evans combines intricate wordplay with positive but never preachy messages addressing mental health and self-love (“Love Like This”), social inequality (“They Are Not Expecting Us To Fight”) and humanity’s relationship with the natural world (“The Water”).

It’s a family affair too with features from some of London’s brightest emerging vocal talent including the jazzy stylings of Doella, Glorynade’s gospel-tinged rasp and the sublime neo-soul of VVN. UKHH legend Kyza even makes an appearance to taking ‘em to church on the double-time epic “Keep The Faith” (featuring Nyotaa).

Ever expansive in their outlook, the Drs also enlist international assistance with the vintage soul of French-Malagasy chanteuse Malala, Bajan boss Matthew Allman, Lebanese-American poet Sarah Sayad and 2x Grammy winner Speech representing Milwaukee/Atlanta! Even with such a large cast list, the project retains a cohesive style thanks to the singular vision of Configa and Tommy Evans as they spread love through their champion sound.

All tracks Produced, Mixed and Mastered by Configa for Configaration Records